6 Ways To Become A Us Army Warrant Officer

The US Army Warrant Officer (WO) is a technical expert in a specific area, providing guidance and support to commanders and other personnel. To become a Warrant Officer, one must possess a unique combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and experience. Here are six ways to become a US Army Warrant Officer:

What is a Warrant Officer?

A Warrant Officer is a highly specialized technician who serves as a subject matter expert in a specific field. They provide critical guidance and support to commanders and other personnel, ensuring that the Army's technical systems and equipment operate efficiently and effectively. Warrant Officers hold a unique position in the Army, ranking above non-commissioned officers (NCOs) but below commissioned officers.

Method 1: Direct Appointment

The most common way to become a Warrant Officer is through direct appointment. This involves applying for a Warrant Officer position while serving as an enlisted soldier. To be eligible, candidates must meet specific requirements, including:

Holding a minimum rank of E-4 (Specialist/Corporal)
Having a minimum of 4-6 years of service
Possessing a high school diploma or equivalent
Scoring a minimum of 110 on the General Technical (GT) section of the Army General Classification Test (AGCT)
Passing the Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS) physical fitness test

Candidates who meet these requirements can apply for a Warrant Officer position through the Army's Warrant Officer Application and Selection Process.

WOCS Physical Fitness Test

The WOCS physical fitness test is a critical component of the Warrant Officer selection process. The test consists of three events:

2-mile run
Sit-ups
Push-ups

Candidates must score a minimum of 60 points on each event to pass the test.

Method 2: Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS)

WOCS is a rigorous training program designed to prepare candidates for the challenges of Warrant Officer leadership. The course is approximately 5 weeks long and covers topics such as:

Leadership and management
Technical writing and communication
Problem-solving and decision-making
Physical fitness and combat skills

Method 3: Army National Guard (ARNG) Warrant Officer Program

The ARNG offers a Warrant Officer program for soldiers who wish to serve in a part-time capacity. To be eligible, candidates must:

Hold a minimum rank of E-4 (Specialist/Corporal)
Have a minimum of 2-4 years of service
Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
Score a minimum of 110 on the General Technical (GT) section of the AGCT
Pass the WOCS physical fitness test

ARNG Warrant Officer candidates attend WOCS and receive training in technical expertise, leadership, and management.

Method 4: Army Reserve (USAR) Warrant Officer Program

The USAR offers a Warrant Officer program for soldiers who wish to serve in a part-time capacity. To be eligible, candidates must:

Hold a minimum rank of E-4 (Specialist/Corporal)
Have a minimum of 2-4 years of service
Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
Score a minimum of 110 on the General Technical (GT) section of the AGCT
Pass the WOCS physical fitness test

USAR Warrant Officer candidates attend WOCS and receive training in technical expertise, leadership, and management.

Method 5: Lateral Entry Warrant Officer Program

The Lateral Entry Warrant Officer Program allows civilians with specialized technical expertise to join the Army as a Warrant Officer. To be eligible, candidates must:

Possess a bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant technical field
Have a minimum of 2-4 years of work experience in their technical field
Score a minimum of 110 on the General Technical (GT) section of the AGCT
Pass the WOCS physical fitness test

Lateral Entry Warrant Officer candidates attend WOCS and receive training in leadership, management, and Army-specific skills.

Method 6: Interservice Transfer

Soldiers from other branches of the military (e.g., Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps) can transfer to the Army and become a Warrant Officer through the Interservice Transfer Program. To be eligible, candidates must:

Hold a minimum rank of E-4 (Petty Officer 3rd Class/Airman 1st Class/Corporal)
Have a minimum of 2-4 years of service
Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
Score a minimum of 110 on the General Technical (GT) section of the AGCT
Pass the WOCS physical fitness test

Interservice Transfer candidates attend WOCS and receive training in Army-specific skills, leadership, and management.

Gallery of US Army Warrant Officer Images

US Army Warrant Officer Images

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Warrant Officer and a commissioned officer?

A Warrant Officer is a technical expert in a specific area, while a commissioned officer is a leader and manager. Warrant Officers hold a unique position in the Army, ranking above NCOs but below commissioned officers.

How long does it take to become a Warrant Officer?

The length of time it takes to become a Warrant Officer varies depending on the method of entry. Direct appointment candidates typically take 5-7 years to become a Warrant Officer, while Lateral Entry candidates can become a Warrant Officer in as little as 2-4 years.

What are the benefits of becoming a Warrant Officer?

Warrant Officers receive specialized training and expertise, as well as increased pay and benefits. They also hold a unique position in the Army, providing guidance and support to commanders and other personnel.

Becoming a US Army Warrant Officer requires dedication, hard work, and technical expertise. Whether through direct appointment, WOCS, or lateral entry, Warrant Officers play a critical role in the Army's technical systems and equipment. If you're interested in becoming a Warrant Officer, research the different methods of entry and requirements to find the best fit for your skills and experience.